The Government of Ghana has launched a pilot program introducing electric buses for public transport in Accra and Kumasi, as part of efforts to reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
Pilot details:
- 50 electric buses (25 Accra, 25 Kumasi)
- 200km range per charge
- 80-passenger capacity
- Charging infrastructure at depots
- 6-month trial period
Bus specifications:
- Battery: 350 kWh lithium-ion
- Charging time: 4 hours (fast charge)
- Top speed: 80 km/h
- Zero tailpipe emissions
- Lower operating costs than diesel
Routes:
Accra:
- Circle-Achimota-Lapaz
- Madina-Accra Central
- Teshie-Nungua
Kumasi:
- Kejetia-KNUST
- Sofoline-Aboa
Expected benefits:
- Reduced air pollution in cities
- Lower fuel import dependence
- Reduced operating costs (30% cheaper)
- Quieter, smoother rides
- Job creation (maintenance, charging)
Funding:
- $20 million from government
- $10 million from Global Environment Facility
- $5 million from private sector
- Bus manufacturer financing
Partners:
- Bus manufacturers (China, BYD)
- Electricity Company of Ghana
- Metro Mass Transit
- AMA and KMA assemblies
- Universities (monitoring and evaluation)
If successful, expansion plans include:
- 200 more buses by 2025
- Additional cities (Takoradi, Tamale)
- Electric taxis and tro-tros
- Manufacturing/assembly in Ghana
Challenges:
- Initial high cost
- Charging infrastructure
- Grid capacity
- Maintenance capacity
- Public acceptance
The pilot aligns with Ghana's Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement to reduce emissions from transport, which accounts for 30% of Ghana's emissions.
Air pollution from vehicles is a major health concern in Ghanaian cities, causing respiratory illnesses and premature deaths. Electric buses offer a sustainable alternative.
